Trumpington, Cambridgeshire

A Low-Maintenance Mediterranean-inspired Garden

Just on the outskirts of Trumpington, this Cambridgeshire garden project designed by Tom draws inspiration from the unique climatic conditions of Cambridge, renowned as the driest city in Western Europe north of the Pyrenees. In pursuit of a truly low-maintenance scheme, the design borrows from the plant palette of Mediterranean France, featuring a captivating blend of carpeting and mounded aromatic plants. While some of these plants may not typically thrive in the UK, the garden’s success story is a testament to the interplay of naturally low rainfall, a deep layer of gravel, and the micro-climate of the city. This harmonious blend of elements allows for plant hardiness beyond what is typically expected in the region.

This design and planting not only offers aesthetic appeal but also provides the practical advantage of low-maintenance landscaping. The plant selection for this project is a testament to the adaptability of Mediterranean flora to the Cambridgeshire environment.

A Blend of Carpeting and Aromatic Plants

The garden’s design features a captivating mix of carpeting and mounded aromatic plants. This dynamic combination not only adds visual interest to the garden but also infuses the air with delightful scents, creating a multisensory experience for visitors.

Inspiration for this unusual plant selection for this garden comes from the renowned plantsman Olivier Filippi of Jardin Sec in France. As an accomplished author of books on Mediterranean gardening, Filippi’s expertise shines through in the carefully curated collection of plants. His guidance and selection have played a pivotal role in achieving the Mediterranean allure of this garden.

To complement the garden’s design, the innovative lighting was conceptualised and designed by the highly acclaimed Jean Philippe Weimar. His creative and forward-thinking approach to lighting has added an extra layer of enchantment to the garden. By night, the garden transforms into a captivating wonderland, where the interplay of light and shadow accentuates the beauty of the Mediterranean-inspired flora. As you explore the garden, you’ll witness a lush carpet of greenery, adorned with vibrant and aromatic plants that evoke the essence of the Mediterranean. The carefully curated selection of flora adds character to the garden, creating an oasis of tranquillity and beauty in Cambridgeshire.

The photography, captured by Richard Bloom, beautifully portrays the essence of this Mediterranean-inspired garden in the heart of Cambridge.

The Mediterranean-inspired garden in Trumpington, Cambridgeshire, is a testament to the adaptability of plant life, the brilliance of design, and the artistry of renowned experts. By drawing inspiration from the arid landscapes of Mediterranean France and leveraging Cambridge’s unique climate and environmental factors, this garden has achieved a harmonious blend of aesthetics and low maintenance. The captivating visuals and aromatic delights found in this garden offer a tranquil escape, inviting visitors to appreciate the unexpected beauty that can emerge from the interplay of nature, design, and expert craftsmanship. Explore our gallery to experience the charm of this Mediterranean-inspired oasis in the heart of Cambridge.

Photography Richard Bloom